Danger Signs of Pregnancy
Most women will have normal pregnancies with no complications whatsoever. It is important, however, to learn the warning signs that something is wrong. Your doctor or midwife should alert you to potential problems that may be specific to your situation, but the general warning signs apply to every pregnancy, even the low risk variety.
Your midwife or doctor will routinely screen for potential problems throughout pregnancy. The blood pressure and urine testing that is done, as well as other potential tests, will help you know if you are in a higher risk category.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is important to call your practitioner immediately. They can advise you as to what further steps may be necessary or help you rule out the more serious complications. Delaying care may also make the situation more serious than if care had been begun when you first noticed the symptoms.
Danger Signs in Pregnancy |
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| Symptom | Potential Problem | Other possible causes |
| Vaginal Bleeding | Miscarriage, placental abruption, placenta previa | Hormonal bleeding, Implantation bleeding |
| Pelvic or Abdominal Pain | Miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, abruption | Cyst, uterine growth, ligament pain |
| Persistent Back Pain | Miscarriage, preterm labor | Kidney/bladder infection, cyst, normal pregnancy pain |
| Gush of Fluid from Vagina | Preterm labor, preterm rupture of membranes, miscarriage | Leaky bladder, watery mucous |
| Swelling of the Hands/Face | Pregnancy Induced Hypertension (PIH) | Swelling |
| Severe Headaches, Blurry Vision | PIH, Ecclampsia | |
| Regular Contractions prior to 37 Weeks | Preterm labor | Gastric upset |
| No Fetal Movement | Fetal distress, Fetal Demise | Slowed movements, anterior placenta |
Other Resources
Is my baby all right?
Ectopic Pregnancy Links
Miscarriage Links
Placenta Previa Links
High Blood Pressure (PIH) Links
Preterm Labor: A Crash Course
Predicting Preterm Labor
Preterm Labor Links
Bedrest Links
SIDS Links
